Search

This year daylight saving time begins on March 11 at 2:00 am. While the extra sunlight is welcomed and allows us to get more done and fit more exercise into our days, it also comes with a little inconvenience; we lose an hour of sleep. That might not sound that serious, but experts warn that disrupting sleep patterns comes with a few risks. For example the number of heart attacks increases and the number of traffic accidents is higher the day after the time change. Don’t worry though; there are some things you can do to avoid getting hurt so that you can simply delight in the fact that more sunlight is on its way!

Try to go bed 15 minutes earlier for few days leading to the time change – this will give your body a chance to get used to the change gradually

Be alert on the road – sleep deprivation is common after the time change and it can lead to traffic accidents

Put the phone down – don’t drive, bike, or walk distracted

If you have the option, work from home after the time change – this way you avoid distracted drivers and avoid being a drowsy driver

Exercise with care – if you have chronic heart disease and have been inactive for a while, take it easy, start with a slow 30 minute walk

Daylight saving time is also a great reminder to tune up your bike for spring – check your tires, gears, nuts and bolts, or take it to a shop for a tune up. And a great reminder to check your smoke alarms, CO2 detectors, and get rid of unwanted medicines.